US10894587B2 - Preformed foundation support for a marine vessel gyro-stabilization system - Google Patents

Preformed foundation support for a marine vessel gyro-stabilization system Download PDF

Info

Publication number
US10894587B2
US10894587B2 US16/027,420 US201816027420A US10894587B2 US 10894587 B2 US10894587 B2 US 10894587B2 US 201816027420 A US201816027420 A US 201816027420A US 10894587 B2 US10894587 B2 US 10894587B2
Authority
US
United States
Prior art keywords
vessel
foundation support
stabilization system
gyro
support
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Expired - Fee Related, expires
Application number
US16/027,420
Other versions
US20200010159A1 (en
Inventor
William Walsh Jennings
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Individual
Original Assignee
Individual
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Individual filed Critical Individual
Priority to US16/027,420 priority Critical patent/US10894587B2/en
Publication of US20200010159A1 publication Critical patent/US20200010159A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of US10894587B2 publication Critical patent/US10894587B2/en
Expired - Fee Related legal-status Critical Current
Adjusted expiration legal-status Critical

Links

Images

Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
    • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
    • B29C70/00—Shaping composites, i.e. plastics material comprising reinforcements, fillers or preformed parts, e.g. inserts
    • B29C70/68—Shaping composites, i.e. plastics material comprising reinforcements, fillers or preformed parts, e.g. inserts by incorporating or moulding on preformed parts, e.g. inserts or layers, e.g. foam blocks
    • B29C70/86—Incorporated in coherent impregnated reinforcing layers, e.g. by winding
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
    • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
    • B29C70/00—Shaping composites, i.e. plastics material comprising reinforcements, fillers or preformed parts, e.g. inserts
    • B29C70/02—Shaping composites, i.e. plastics material comprising reinforcements, fillers or preformed parts, e.g. inserts comprising combinations of reinforcements, e.g. non-specified reinforcements, fibrous reinforcing inserts and fillers, e.g. particulate fillers, incorporated in matrix material, forming one or more layers and with or without non-reinforced or non-filled layers
    • B29C70/021—Combinations of fibrous reinforcement and non-fibrous material
    • B29C70/023—Combinations of fibrous reinforcement and non-fibrous material with reinforcing inserts
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
    • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
    • B29C70/00—Shaping composites, i.e. plastics material comprising reinforcements, fillers or preformed parts, e.g. inserts
    • B29C70/04—Shaping composites, i.e. plastics material comprising reinforcements, fillers or preformed parts, e.g. inserts comprising reinforcements only, e.g. self-reinforcing plastics
    • B29C70/28—Shaping operations therefor
    • B29C70/30—Shaping by lay-up, i.e. applying fibres, tape or broadsheet on a mould, former or core; Shaping by spray-up, i.e. spraying of fibres on a mould, former or core
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
    • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
    • B29C70/00—Shaping composites, i.e. plastics material comprising reinforcements, fillers or preformed parts, e.g. inserts
    • B29C70/68—Shaping composites, i.e. plastics material comprising reinforcements, fillers or preformed parts, e.g. inserts by incorporating or moulding on preformed parts, e.g. inserts or layers, e.g. foam blocks
    • B29C70/681—Component parts, details or accessories; Auxiliary operations
    • B29C70/682—Preformed parts characterised by their structure, e.g. form
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B63—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; RELATED EQUIPMENT
    • B63B—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; EQUIPMENT FOR SHIPPING 
    • B63B39/00—Equipment to decrease pitch, roll, or like unwanted vessel movements; Apparatus for indicating vessel attitude
    • B63B39/04—Equipment to decrease pitch, roll, or like unwanted vessel movements; Apparatus for indicating vessel attitude to decrease vessel movements by using gyroscopes directly
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B63—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; RELATED EQUIPMENT
    • B63B—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; EQUIPMENT FOR SHIPPING 
    • B63B5/00—Hulls characterised by their construction of non-metallic material
    • B63B5/24—Hulls characterised by their construction of non-metallic material made predominantly of plastics
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
    • B29C—SHAPING OR JOINING OF PLASTICS; SHAPING OF MATERIAL IN A PLASTIC STATE, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR; AFTER-TREATMENT OF THE SHAPED PRODUCTS, e.g. REPAIRING
    • B29C2791/00—Shaping characteristics in general
    • B29C2791/002—Making articles of definite length, i.e. discrete articles
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
    • B29K—INDEXING SCHEME ASSOCIATED WITH SUBCLASSES B29B, B29C OR B29D, RELATING TO MOULDING MATERIALS OR TO MATERIALS FOR MOULDS, REINFORCEMENTS, FILLERS OR PREFORMED PARTS, e.g. INSERTS
    • B29K2105/00—Condition, form or state of moulded material or of the material to be shaped
    • B29K2105/06—Condition, form or state of moulded material or of the material to be shaped containing reinforcements, fillers or inserts
    • B29K2105/08—Condition, form or state of moulded material or of the material to be shaped containing reinforcements, fillers or inserts of continuous length, e.g. cords, rovings, mats, fabrics, strands or yarns
    • B29K2105/0809—Fabrics
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
    • B29K—INDEXING SCHEME ASSOCIATED WITH SUBCLASSES B29B, B29C OR B29D, RELATING TO MOULDING MATERIALS OR TO MATERIALS FOR MOULDS, REINFORCEMENTS, FILLERS OR PREFORMED PARTS, e.g. INSERTS
    • B29K2309/00—Use of inorganic materials not provided for in groups B29K2303/00 - B29K2307/00, as reinforcement
    • B29K2309/08—Glass
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
    • B29K—INDEXING SCHEME ASSOCIATED WITH SUBCLASSES B29B, B29C OR B29D, RELATING TO MOULDING MATERIALS OR TO MATERIALS FOR MOULDS, REINFORCEMENTS, FILLERS OR PREFORMED PARTS, e.g. INSERTS
    • B29K2715/00—Condition, form or state of preformed parts, e.g. inserts
    • B29K2715/003—Cellular or porous
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
    • B29L—INDEXING SCHEME ASSOCIATED WITH SUBCLASS B29C, RELATING TO PARTICULAR ARTICLES
    • B29L2031/00—Other particular articles
    • B29L2031/30—Vehicles, e.g. ships or aircraft, or body parts thereof
    • B29L2031/3067—Ships
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B29—WORKING OF PLASTICS; WORKING OF SUBSTANCES IN A PLASTIC STATE IN GENERAL
    • B29L—INDEXING SCHEME ASSOCIATED WITH SUBCLASS B29C, RELATING TO PARTICULAR ARTICLES
    • B29L2031/00—Other particular articles
    • B29L2031/748—Machines or parts thereof not otherwise provided for
    • B29L2031/7502—Supports, machine frames or beds, worktables
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B63—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; RELATED EQUIPMENT
    • B63B—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; EQUIPMENT FOR SHIPPING 
    • B63B17/00—Vessels parts, details, or accessories, not otherwise provided for
    • B63B2017/0054—Rests or supports for movable ship-borne equipment
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B63—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; RELATED EQUIPMENT
    • B63B—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; EQUIPMENT FOR SHIPPING 
    • B63B2221/00—Methods and means for joining members or elements
    • B63B2221/10—Methods and means for joining members or elements using adhesives
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B63—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; RELATED EQUIPMENT
    • B63B—SHIPS OR OTHER WATERBORNE VESSELS; EQUIPMENT FOR SHIPPING 
    • B63B2231/00—Material used for some parts or elements, or for particular purposes
    • B63B2231/40—Synthetic materials
    • B63B2231/52—Fibre reinforced plastics materials

Definitions

  • the exemplary and non-limiting embodiments of this invention relate generally to systems, methods, and devices for a preformed foundation support for a marine vessel gyro-stabilization system, and, more specifically, relate to a customizable foundation support for a marine vessel gyro-stabilization system having a cuttable portion for facilitating quick, accurate and secure installation of the gyro-stabilization system within the marine vessel.
  • a marine gyrostabilizer reduces the rolling of boats and ships in waves.
  • a flywheel mounted in a gimbal frame allows for two of the three possible rotational degrees of freedom.
  • This gimbal frame is rigidly mounted to the hull of the vessel, and the flywheel gimbaled within the frame.
  • the device is located in the engine room of the vessel, but other installation locations are possible.
  • a gyro-stabilizing torque is created by the spinning flywheel. Waves, wind and water movement cause the vessel to roll, and this rolling motion and the spinning flywheel cause a precession motion to be generated that creates the stabilizing torque.
  • the roll stabilizing torque is directly created in response to the rolling motion itself, so there is no time delay, or lag, between the wave induced rolling motion and the stabilizing torque produced by the precession of the spinning flywheel. The result is a smooth and consistent application of stabilizing torques.
  • marine gyrostabilizers use a vacuum encapsulation of a flywheel that spins at speeds of about 10,000 rpm. When the boat rolls, the gyro tilts fore and stern (precesses), producing a powerful gyroscopic torque to port and starboard that counteracts the boat roll.
  • the installation of a marine gyrostabilizer is a labor-intensive process. Typically, the location for the installation is first determined depending on available space, the physical size of the marine gyrostabilizer, the preferences of the boat owner, and other factors such as the location of structural elements of the vessel.
  • a preformed foundation support for a vessel gyro-stabilization system.
  • the preformed foundation support comprises at least three of a first side support, a second side support, a third side support, and a fourth side support.
  • the side supports define an opening for accommodating at least a portion of a vessel gyro-stabilization system, and the side supports comprise a cuttable portion for custom fitting the preformed foundation support in a vessel.
  • a method for a preformed foundation support structure installed in a vessel.
  • the method includes providing a preformed foundation support for a vessel gyro-stabilization system.
  • the preformed foundation support comprises at least three of a first side support, a second side support, a third side support, and a fourth side support.
  • the side supports which can be a combination of walls and/or braces, define an opening for accommodating at least a portion of a vessel gyro-stabilization system.
  • the preformed foundation support is fixed to a structure support of the vessel.
  • the vessel gyro-stabilization system is then fixed to the preformed foundation support.
  • the preformed foundation support can be easily customized by cutting a cuttable portion of the preformed foundation support for custom fitting the preformed foundation support to the structure support of the vessel.
  • a method for forming a preformed foundation support for a vessel gyro-stabilization system.
  • the method comprises the steps of: providing a mold having a mold cavity defining a box shaped cavity having a first side support cavity, a second side support cavity, a third side support cavity, and a fourth side support cavity; and laying up a fiberglass shell within the mold cavity, wherein the fiberglass shell comprises resin impregnated fiberglass cloth and forms a box shaped structure, and wherein the box shaped structure includes a cuttable portion for custom fitting the preformed foundation support in a vessel.
  • FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an untrimmed foundation support for a vessel gyro-stabilization system
  • FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a trimmed foundation support for a vessel gyro-stabilization system
  • FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the trimmed waste from the embodiment of the inventive foundation support for a vessel gyro-stabilization system
  • FIG. 4 is an isolated perspective view of the trimmed foundation support for a vessel gyro-stabilization system
  • FIG. 5 is a top plan view of an embodiment of the inventive foundation support for a vessel gyro-stabilization system
  • FIG. 6 is an end view of the embodiment of the inventive foundation support for a vessel gyro-stabilization system
  • FIG. 7 is a side view of the embodiment of the inventive foundation support for a vessel gyro-stabilization system
  • FIG. 8 shows an embodiment of the inventive foundation support for a vessel gyro-stabilization system installed in the hull of a vessel
  • FIG. 9 is a dimensioned sectional view of an embodiment of the inventive foundation support for a vessel gyro-stabilization system showing transverse bracket details;
  • FIG. 10 shows an embodiment of the inventive foundation support for a vessel gyro-stabilization system installed in the hull of a vessel over existing hull structure;
  • FIG. 11 is a dimensioned sectional view of an embodiment of the inventive foundation support for a vessel gyro-stabilization system showing transverse bracket details as installed over existing hull structure;
  • FIG. 12 shows an embodiment of the inventive foundation support for a vessel gyro-stabilization system installed in the hull of a vessel between existing hull structure;
  • FIG. 13 is a dimensioned sectional view of an embodiment of the inventive foundation support for a vessel gyro-stabilization system showing transverse bracket details as installed between existing hull structure;
  • FIG. 14 is a dimensioned top plan view of a mold pattern for an embodiment of the inventive foundation support for a vessel gyro-stabilization system
  • FIG. 15 is a dimensioned side end view of the mold pattern for the embodiment of the inventive foundation support for a vessel gyro-stabilization system
  • FIG. 16 is a dimensioned end view of the mold pattern for the embodiment of the inventive foundation support for a vessel gyro-stabilization system
  • FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a vessel gyro-stabilization system positioned for being installed in the trimmed foundation support for a vessel gyro-stabilization system;
  • FIG. 18 is a top plan view of a mold pattern for an embodiment of the inventive foundation support for a vessel gyro-stabilization system
  • FIG. 19 is a side end view of the mold pattern for the embodiment of the inventive foundation support for a vessel gyro-stabilization system
  • FIG. 20 is an end view of the mold pattern for the embodiment of the inventive foundation support for a vessel gyro-stabilization system
  • FIG. 21 is a top view of the composite mold showing molded transverse brackets
  • FIG. 22 is a dimensioned cross-sectional view of a section of the composite mold showing a composition of the molded transverse bracket
  • FIG. 23 is a top view of the composite mold showing molded longitudinal girders.
  • FIG. 24 is a dimensioned cross-sectional view of a section of the composite mold showing a composition of the molded longitudinal girder with steel tapping plate.
  • FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an untrimmed foundation support 10 for a vessel gyro-stabilization system.
  • FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a trimmed foundation support 10 for a vessel gyro-stabilization system.
  • FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the trimmed waste from the embodiment of the inventive foundation support 10 for a vessel gyro-stabilization system.
  • FIG. 4 is an isolated perspective view of the trimmed foundation support 10 for a vessel gyro-stabilization system.
  • an installation of a gyro-stabilization system often has to take up to six weeks, with the vessel out of the water.
  • the inventive preformed foundation support is faster installation time, possible less than a week which enables an installer to increase their sales volume and increase competitiveness.
  • the inventive preformed foundation support can be sized to a particular vessel size range and/or type, the installation will tend to go more smoothly with less labor and less labor skills as compared with the conventional highly customized installation.
  • the inventive preformed foundation support can be used with OEM or refit application, and colorant added to the fiberglass resin or smooth gelcoat finish, and/or paint used to color match as desired.
  • backlighting can be incorporated in the preformed foundation support for interesting lighting effects and/or to indicate that the gyro-stabilization system is working.
  • Cardboard jigs may be included to help in determining location and size requirements. Also, measuring tools may be included to assist in marking the unit for cutting to fit.
  • the inventive preformed foundation support may include most if not all of the parts needed to install, and may be sold precut to size and labelled as to what location and order to apply. In this case, with the plumbing and electric nearly completely assembled into the preformed foundation, the installer may need to only install custom connections for plumbing and wiring.
  • the inventive preformed foundation support can be installed in near any location including inside consoles and leaning posts, with installations that can be the lowest profile possible to fit into tight spaces easier.
  • a preformed foundation support 10 is provided for a vessel gyro-stabilization system.
  • the preformed foundation support 10 comprises a first side support 12 , a second side support 14 , a third side support 16 , and a fourth side support 18 .
  • the mold may be configured and dimensioned so that at least one of the side supports includes a semi-circular cutout 20 for accommodating a spherical gyroscope housing of the vessel gyro-stabilization system.
  • the side supports define an opening for accommodating at least a portion of the vessel gyro-stabilization system, and the side supports comprise a cuttable portion 22 for custom fitting the preformed foundation support 10 in a vessel.
  • the preformed foundation support 10 is for facilitating the installation of a marine gyrostabilizer used to reduce the rolling of boats and ships in waves where a flywheel mounted in a gimbal frame is rigidly mounted to the hull of the vessel.
  • the inventive preformed foundation support 10 facilitates the installation of the gyro-stabilization system whether located in the engine room of the vessel, or any other installation location.
  • the tendency of the rolling motion caused by waves, wind and water movement is resisted by the gyro-stabilizing torque created using a very quickly spinning, heavy flywheel.
  • the heavy gyro-stabilization system must be installed so as to be rigidly fixed to the vessel, inside the hull or on the deck, and oriented so that when waves, wind and water movement cause the vessel to roll, the rolling motion and the spinning flywheel cause a precession motion to be generated that creates the stabilizing torque.
  • the first and second side supports of the preformed foundation support 10 are longitudinally disposed girders locatable during installation of the preformed foundation support 10 parallel to a longitudinal center line of the vessel running from bow to stern, the girders support the vessel gyro-stabilization system in the vessel.
  • the girders are walls making up the first and second side supports and the transverse bracket are walls making up the third and fourth side supports.
  • the transverse brackets are disposed substantially perpendicular to the girders, forming an opening for accommodating parts of the vessel gyro-stabilization system with the girders supporting anchor points of the vessel gyro-stabilization system.
  • the preformed support structure must be robust and rigid to immediately transfer strong forces between the vessel and the gyro-stabilization system.
  • the inventive preformed foundation support 10 In order to facilitate onsite customizable installations, and to help reduce labor, reduce mistakes, and avoid improper installation, the inventive preformed foundation support 10 needs to be easily cuttable to provide a custom fit within the confines of a particular vessel. Also, the materials in the construction of the preformed foundation support 10 needs to be able to withstand harsh marine environmental conditions, which typically include heavy salt laden moisture, salt water, fuels, oil, grit, and other corrosive and destructive conditions.
  • FIG. 5 is a top plan view of an embodiment of the inventive foundation support for a vessel gyro-stabilization system.
  • FIG. 6 is an end view of the embodiment of the inventive foundation support for a vessel gyro-stabilization system.
  • FIG. 7 is a side view of the embodiment of the inventive foundation support for a vessel gyro-stabilization system.
  • the embodiment shown herein is exemplary of the inventive preformed foundation support. There are a variety of different sized gyro-stabilization systems made by a number of manufacturers. The same general structure and advantages can be achieved for different sized and shaped gyro-stabilization systems as described with regard to the exemplary embodiment shown in the drawings.
  • the inventive preformed foundation support can be sized to a gyro-stabilization system that is custom fit into a particular vessel size range and/or type.
  • FIG. 8 shows an embodiment of the inventive foundation support 10 for a vessel gyro-stabilization system installed in the hull of a vessel.
  • FIG. 9 is a sectional view of an embodiment of the inventive foundation support 10 for a vessel gyro-stabilization system showing transverse bracket details.
  • the molded preformed foundation support 10 is installed by bonding and tabbing to the hull of a vessel. Measurements are first taken of the installation location of the vessel. The longitudinal girders and transverse brackets are cut using a saw blade so that the cuttable portion 22 of the box shaped structure formed by the side supports are trimmed to fit in the installation location. As shown in FIG. 8 and FIG. 9 , the trimmed preformed foundation support 10 is bonded to the hull using putty, resin, hardener, Cabosil and/or chopped glass fibers. In this example installation, fiberglass DBM 1708 Knytex Biaxial +/ ⁇ 45 degree fabric and CM 1808 0/90 degree fiberglass tape are used to create strong bonding between the foundation support 10 and the pre-existing hull structure.
  • the longitudinal girders can be tabbed to the hull, for example, with alternating plies of DBM 1708 E-Glass biaxial (e.g. Vectorply E-BSM 1708 or equivalent) and CM 1808 E-glass biaxial 0/90 degree (Vectorply E-LTM 1808 or equivalent), with 4 plies that are 8′′ wide (4′′ on girders, 4′′ on hull).
  • the transverse brackets can be tabbed to the hull, for example, with alternating plies of DBM 1708 and CM 1808, 3 plies total, 8′′ wide (4′′ on brackets, 4′′ on hull).
  • FIG. 10 shows an embodiment of the inventive foundation support 10 for a vessel gyro-stabilization system installed in the hull of a vessel over existing hull structure.
  • FIG. 11 is a sectional view of an embodiment of the inventive foundation support 10 for a vessel gyro-stabilization system showing transverse bracket details as installed over existing hull structure.
  • the preformed foundation support 10 is trimmed by cutting the side supports so that the longitudinal girders and the transverse brackets fit over and/or between existing hull structures, such as stiffeners and frames. Similar to the installation shown in FIG. 8 and FIG.
  • the longitudinal girders and the transverse brackets can be tabbed to the existing hull structures using fiberglass DBM 1708 Knytex Biaxial +/ ⁇ 45 degree fabric and CM 1808 0/90 degree fiberglass tape, putty, resin, hardener, Cabosil and/or chopped glass fibers.
  • FIG. 12 shows an embodiment of the inventive foundation support 10 for a vessel gyro-stabilization system installed in the hull of a vessel between existing hull structure.
  • FIG. 13 is a sectional view of an embodiment of the inventive foundation support 10 for a vessel gyro-stabilization system showing transverse bracket details as installed between existing hull structure.
  • the preformed foundation support 10 is bonded and tabbed over existing adjacent hull structure, which should have less than a 4′′ gap.
  • the gap between the trimmed preformed foundation support 10 and the existing adjacent hull structure is filled using a shaped block of fiber reinforced foam, such as Airex PXC. 385 or equivalent.
  • the shaped block is bonded to both the existing adjacent hull structure and the trimmed preformed foundation support 10 .
  • the longitudinal girders and the transverse brackets can be tabbed to the existing adjacent hull structures and the foam block using fiberglass DBM 1708 Knytex Biaxial +/ ⁇ 45 degree fabric and CM 1808 0/90 degree fiberglass tape, putty, resin, hardener, Cabosil and/or chopped glass fibers.
  • At least one of the side supports may include a semi-circular cutout 20 for accommodating a spherical gyroscope housing of the vessel gyro-stabilization system and are integrally formed of a molded fiberglass construction.
  • the molded fiberglass construction includes a resin impregnated fiberglass shell having a closed cell foam core, and a metal tapping plate is embedded within the fiberglass shell for fixing the vessel gyro-stabilization system to the preformed foundation support 10 .
  • the first and second side supports are longitudinally disposed girders locatable during installation of the preformed foundation support 10 parallel to a longitudinal center line of the vessel running from bow to stern of the vessel.
  • FIG. 14 is a dimensioned top plan view of a mold pattern for an embodiment of the inventive foundation support 10 for a vessel gyro-stabilization system.
  • FIG. 15 is a dimensioned side end view of the mold pattern for the embodiment of the inventive foundation support 10 for a vessel gyro-stabilization system.
  • FIG. 16 is a dimensioned end view of the mold pattern for the embodiment of the inventive foundation support 10 for a vessel gyro-stabilization system.
  • a mold having a mold cavity defining a box shaped cavity having a first side support cavity, a second side support cavity, a third side support cavity, and a fourth side support cavity.
  • a fiberglass shell is laid up within the mold cavity, wherein the fiberglass shell comprises resin impregnated fiberglass cloth and forms a box shaped structure, and wherein the box shaped structure includes a cuttable portion 22 for custom fitting the preformed foundation support 10 in a vessel.
  • a closed cell foam core is disposed within the fiberglass shell.
  • the fiberglass shell can be made up of multiple layers of the resin impregnated fiberglass cloth.
  • FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a vessel gyro-stabilization system positioned for being installed in the trimmed foundation support 10 for a vessel gyro-stabilization system. Since the gyro-stabilization system metal is typically heavy and generates torque to perform its function, it must be very securely fixed to and supported by the preformed foundation support 10 .
  • a tapping plate is embedded within the fiberglass shell for fixing the vessel gyro-stabilization system to the preformed foundation support 10 . This tapping plate can be drilled and tapped during the customization of the preformed foundation support 10 to fit the requirements of the particular installation. For example, the location and dimensions of the drilled holes will depend on the location of mating support elements of a particular gyro-stabilization system.
  • the tapping plate is oversized to allow for a proper matchup of the drilled hole location during the installation procedure.
  • the preformed foundation support 10 is installed parallel to the vessel centerline, with the upper surface of the longitudinal girders level.
  • the vessel water plane is leveled (port/starboard, forward/aft) prior to beginning the installation.
  • FIG. 18 is a top plan view of a mold pattern for an embodiment of the inventive foundation support 10 for a vessel gyro-stabilization system.
  • FIG. 19 is a side end view of the mold pattern for the embodiment of the inventive foundation support 10 for a vessel gyro-stabilization system.
  • FIG. 20 is an end view of the mold pattern for the embodiment of the inventive foundation support 10 for a vessel gyro-stabilization system.
  • the first and second side supports are formed by laying up the resin impregnated fiberglass cloth and foam core within the mold to form longitudinally disposed girders. These girders are locatable during installation of the preformed foundation support 10 parallel to the longitudinal center line of the vessel running from bow to stern.
  • the girders support the vessel gyro-stabilization system in the vessel along with the similarly formed third and fourth side supports formed as transverse brackets disposed substantially perpendicular to the girders.
  • the mold is configured and dimensioned so that at least one of the side supports includes a semi-circular cutout 20 for accommodating a spherical gyroscope housing of the vessel gyro-stabilization system.
  • FIG. 21 is a top view of the composite mold showing molded transverse brackets.
  • FIG. 22 is a cross-sectional view of a section of the composite mold showing a composition of the molded transverse bracket.
  • FIG. 23 is a top view of the composite mold showing molded longitudinal girders.
  • FIG. 24 is a cross-sectional view of a section of the composite mold showing a composition of the molded longitudinal girder with steel tapping plate.
  • the transverse brackets of the composite molded preformed foundation support 10 are fabricated with one ply of 6 oz/sq ⁇ yard fiberglass cloth; one ply of CM 1808 fiberglass biaxial 0/90 degree (Vectorply E-LTM 1808 or equivalent); one ply of DBM 1708 fiberglass biaxial +/ ⁇ 45 degree (Vectorply E-BXM 1708 or equivalent); and one ply of CM 1808.
  • a 6 lb/cubic foot close cell polyiso foam (Elfoam P600 or equivalent) is shaped to fit to the transverse brackets. The foam ends are cut flush with the longitudinal girders inboard sides as shown in FIG. 22 .
  • the longitudinal girders of the composite molded preformed foundation support 10 are fabricated with a one ply of 6 oz/sq ⁇ yard fiberglass cloth; one ply of CM 1808 fiberglass biaxiam 0/90 degree (Vectorply E-LTM 1808 or equivalent); one ply of DBM 1708 fiberglass biaxil +/ ⁇ 45 degree (Vectorply E-BXM 1708 or equivalent); and one ply of CM 1808.
  • Four 5.5′′ ⁇ 2.69′′ ⁇ 1′′ steel tapping plates are inserted as shown in FIG. 24 .
  • a 6 lb/cubic foot close cell polyiso foam (Elfoam P600 or equivalent) is shaped to fit to the transverse brackets.
  • the foam is bonded to the longitudinal girders laminate with putty, resin, hardener, Cabosil and/or chopped glass fibers. After hardening, the composite molded preformed foundation is demolded and made ready for a custom installation.

Landscapes

  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Composite Materials (AREA)
  • Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
  • Ocean & Marine Engineering (AREA)
  • Gyroscopes (AREA)

Abstract

A preformed foundation support for a vessel gyro-stabilization system, comprises at least three of a first side support, a second side support, a third side support, and a fourth side support. The side supports define an opening for accommodating at least a portion of a vessel gyro-stabilization system, and the side supports comprise a cuttable portion for custom fitting the preformed foundation support in a vessel. The preformed foundation support structure is installed in the vessel by cutting the cuttable portion of the preformed foundation support for custom fitting the preformed foundation support to the structure support of the vessel. The preformed foundation support structure can be manufactured as a molded fiberglass structure.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD
The exemplary and non-limiting embodiments of this invention relate generally to systems, methods, and devices for a preformed foundation support for a marine vessel gyro-stabilization system, and, more specifically, relate to a customizable foundation support for a marine vessel gyro-stabilization system having a cuttable portion for facilitating quick, accurate and secure installation of the gyro-stabilization system within the marine vessel.
BACKGROUND
This section is intended to provide a background or context to the exemplary embodiments of the invention as recited in the claims. The description herein may include concepts that could be pursued but are not necessarily ones that have been previously conceived, implemented or described. Therefore, unless otherwise indicated herein, what is described in this section is not prior art to the description and claims in this application and is not admitted as prior art by inclusion in this section.
A marine gyrostabilizer reduces the rolling of boats and ships in waves. Typically, a flywheel mounted in a gimbal frame allows for two of the three possible rotational degrees of freedom. This gimbal frame is rigidly mounted to the hull of the vessel, and the flywheel gimbaled within the frame. Usually, the device is located in the engine room of the vessel, but other installation locations are possible.
To oppose the tendency of the rolling motion caused by waves, wind and water movement, a gyro-stabilizing torque is created by the spinning flywheel. Waves, wind and water movement cause the vessel to roll, and this rolling motion and the spinning flywheel cause a precession motion to be generated that creates the stabilizing torque.
The roll stabilizing torque is directly created in response to the rolling motion itself, so there is no time delay, or lag, between the wave induced rolling motion and the stabilizing torque produced by the precession of the spinning flywheel. The result is a smooth and consistent application of stabilizing torques.
Some examples of marine gyrostabilizers use a vacuum encapsulation of a flywheel that spins at speeds of about 10,000 rpm. When the boat rolls, the gyro tilts fore and stern (precesses), producing a powerful gyroscopic torque to port and starboard that counteracts the boat roll.
The installation of a marine gyrostabilizer is a labor-intensive process. Typically, the location for the installation is first determined depending on available space, the physical size of the marine gyrostabilizer, the preferences of the boat owner, and other factors such as the location of structural elements of the vessel.
Once the location for the installation is determined, precise measurements to determine how available anchor points, usually pre-existing portions of the vessels infrastructure, can be utilized to mechanically fix the marine gyrostabilizer to transfer force effectively to the hull of the vessel.
For example, to install a marine gyrostabilizer typically requires a high degree of customization and involves multiple steps to measure, cut, build and install a foundation that fits into the specific space, between pre-existing boat infrastructure, etc. This customization means that each installation is a very labor intensive endeavor, requiring a new foundation structure to be designed and built for every marine gyrostabilizer installation.
Accordingly, there is an unmet need for a solution that enables consistent and accurate installing of a marine gyrostabilizer while limiting labor intensive measurement and custom fitting of shims, spacers, support structures, etc.
SUMMARY
The below summary section is intended to be merely exemplary and non-limiting.
In accordance with an aspect of the invention, a preformed foundation support is provided for a vessel gyro-stabilization system. The preformed foundation support comprises at least three of a first side support, a second side support, a third side support, and a fourth side support. The side supports define an opening for accommodating at least a portion of a vessel gyro-stabilization system, and the side supports comprise a cuttable portion for custom fitting the preformed foundation support in a vessel.
In accordance with another aspect of the invention, a method is provided for a preformed foundation support structure installed in a vessel. The method includes providing a preformed foundation support for a vessel gyro-stabilization system. The preformed foundation support comprises at least three of a first side support, a second side support, a third side support, and a fourth side support. The side supports, which can be a combination of walls and/or braces, define an opening for accommodating at least a portion of a vessel gyro-stabilization system. The preformed foundation support is fixed to a structure support of the vessel. The vessel gyro-stabilization system is then fixed to the preformed foundation support. The preformed foundation support can be easily customized by cutting a cuttable portion of the preformed foundation support for custom fitting the preformed foundation support to the structure support of the vessel.
In accordance with another aspect of the invention, a method is provided for forming a preformed foundation support for a vessel gyro-stabilization system. The method comprises the steps of: providing a mold having a mold cavity defining a box shaped cavity having a first side support cavity, a second side support cavity, a third side support cavity, and a fourth side support cavity; and laying up a fiberglass shell within the mold cavity, wherein the fiberglass shell comprises resin impregnated fiberglass cloth and forms a box shaped structure, and wherein the box shaped structure includes a cuttable portion for custom fitting the preformed foundation support in a vessel.
The foregoing and other problems are overcome, and other advantages are realized, by the use of the exemplary embodiments of this invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The foregoing and other aspects of exemplary embodiments of this invention are made more evident in the following Detailed Description, when read in conjunction with the attached Drawing Figures, wherein:
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an untrimmed foundation support for a vessel gyro-stabilization system;
FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a trimmed foundation support for a vessel gyro-stabilization system;
FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the trimmed waste from the embodiment of the inventive foundation support for a vessel gyro-stabilization system;
FIG. 4 is an isolated perspective view of the trimmed foundation support for a vessel gyro-stabilization system;
FIG. 5 is a top plan view of an embodiment of the inventive foundation support for a vessel gyro-stabilization system;
FIG. 6 is an end view of the embodiment of the inventive foundation support for a vessel gyro-stabilization system;
FIG. 7 is a side view of the embodiment of the inventive foundation support for a vessel gyro-stabilization system;
FIG. 8 shows an embodiment of the inventive foundation support for a vessel gyro-stabilization system installed in the hull of a vessel;
FIG. 9 is a dimensioned sectional view of an embodiment of the inventive foundation support for a vessel gyro-stabilization system showing transverse bracket details;
FIG. 10 shows an embodiment of the inventive foundation support for a vessel gyro-stabilization system installed in the hull of a vessel over existing hull structure;
FIG. 11 is a dimensioned sectional view of an embodiment of the inventive foundation support for a vessel gyro-stabilization system showing transverse bracket details as installed over existing hull structure;
FIG. 12 shows an embodiment of the inventive foundation support for a vessel gyro-stabilization system installed in the hull of a vessel between existing hull structure;
FIG. 13 is a dimensioned sectional view of an embodiment of the inventive foundation support for a vessel gyro-stabilization system showing transverse bracket details as installed between existing hull structure;
FIG. 14 is a dimensioned top plan view of a mold pattern for an embodiment of the inventive foundation support for a vessel gyro-stabilization system;
FIG. 15 is a dimensioned side end view of the mold pattern for the embodiment of the inventive foundation support for a vessel gyro-stabilization system;
FIG. 16 is a dimensioned end view of the mold pattern for the embodiment of the inventive foundation support for a vessel gyro-stabilization system;
FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a vessel gyro-stabilization system positioned for being installed in the trimmed foundation support for a vessel gyro-stabilization system;
FIG. 18 is a top plan view of a mold pattern for an embodiment of the inventive foundation support for a vessel gyro-stabilization system;
FIG. 19 is a side end view of the mold pattern for the embodiment of the inventive foundation support for a vessel gyro-stabilization system;
FIG. 20 is an end view of the mold pattern for the embodiment of the inventive foundation support for a vessel gyro-stabilization system;
FIG. 21 is a top view of the composite mold showing molded transverse brackets;
FIG. 22 is a dimensioned cross-sectional view of a section of the composite mold showing a composition of the molded transverse bracket;
FIG. 23 is a top view of the composite mold showing molded longitudinal girders; and
FIG. 24 is a dimensioned cross-sectional view of a section of the composite mold showing a composition of the molded longitudinal girder with steel tapping plate.
 DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Below are provided further descriptions of various non-limiting, exemplary embodiments. The exemplary embodiments of the invention, such as those described immediately below, may be implemented, practiced or utilized in any combination (e.g., any combination that is suitable, practicable and/or feasible) and are not limited only to those combinations described herein and/or included in the appended claims.
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an untrimmed foundation support 10 for a vessel gyro-stabilization system. FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a trimmed foundation support 10 for a vessel gyro-stabilization system. FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the trimmed waste from the embodiment of the inventive foundation support 10 for a vessel gyro-stabilization system. FIG. 4 is an isolated perspective view of the trimmed foundation support 10 for a vessel gyro-stabilization system.
There are a number of significant advantages to using the inventive preformed foundation support when installing a gyro-stabilization system into a vessel. Conventional installations requires a custom made foundation support that is usually built as a one-off structure that requires an often iterative process of measurement, cutting, building, remeasurement, etc., to get the fit for the foundation customized for the particulars of the vessel. Most if not all of the installation work can be carried out while the vessel remains in the water.
Since there are many types, brands, makes and models of vessels, an installation of a gyro-stabilization system often has to take up to six weeks, with the vessel out of the water. Among the advantages of the inventive preformed foundation support is faster installation time, possible less than a week which enables an installer to increase their sales volume and increase competitiveness. Also, since the inventive preformed foundation support can be sized to a particular vessel size range and/or type, the installation will tend to go more smoothly with less labor and less labor skills as compared with the conventional highly customized installation.
The inventive preformed foundation support can be used with OEM or refit application, and colorant added to the fiberglass resin or smooth gelcoat finish, and/or paint used to color match as desired.
Also, backlighting can be incorporated in the preformed foundation support for interesting lighting effects and/or to indicate that the gyro-stabilization system is working.
Cardboard jigs may be included to help in determining location and size requirements. Also, measuring tools may be included to assist in marking the unit for cutting to fit. The inventive preformed foundation support may include most if not all of the parts needed to install, and may be sold precut to size and labelled as to what location and order to apply. In this case, with the plumbing and electric nearly completely assembled into the preformed foundation, the installer may need to only install custom connections for plumbing and wiring.
The inventive preformed foundation support can be installed in near any location including inside consoles and leaning posts, with installations that can be the lowest profile possible to fit into tight spaces easier.
In accordance with an embodiment of the invention, a preformed foundation support 10 is provided for a vessel gyro-stabilization system. The preformed foundation support 10 comprises a first side support 12, a second side support 14, a third side support 16, and a fourth side support 18. The mold may be configured and dimensioned so that at least one of the side supports includes a semi-circular cutout 20 for accommodating a spherical gyroscope housing of the vessel gyro-stabilization system. The side supports define an opening for accommodating at least a portion of the vessel gyro-stabilization system, and the side supports comprise a cuttable portion 22 for custom fitting the preformed foundation support 10 in a vessel.
The preformed foundation support 10 is for facilitating the installation of a marine gyrostabilizer used to reduce the rolling of boats and ships in waves where a flywheel mounted in a gimbal frame is rigidly mounted to the hull of the vessel. The inventive preformed foundation support 10 facilitates the installation of the gyro-stabilization system whether located in the engine room of the vessel, or any other installation location.
The tendency of the rolling motion caused by waves, wind and water movement is resisted by the gyro-stabilizing torque created using a very quickly spinning, heavy flywheel. The heavy gyro-stabilization system must be installed so as to be rigidly fixed to the vessel, inside the hull or on the deck, and oriented so that when waves, wind and water movement cause the vessel to roll, the rolling motion and the spinning flywheel cause a precession motion to be generated that creates the stabilizing torque.
To do this installation effectively, the first and second side supports of the preformed foundation support 10 are longitudinally disposed girders locatable during installation of the preformed foundation support 10 parallel to a longitudinal center line of the vessel running from bow to stern, the girders support the vessel gyro-stabilization system in the vessel.
To create a strong, easily installed box shape, the girders are walls making up the first and second side supports and the transverse bracket are walls making up the third and fourth side supports. The transverse brackets are disposed substantially perpendicular to the girders, forming an opening for accommodating parts of the vessel gyro-stabilization system with the girders supporting anchor points of the vessel gyro-stabilization system.
Since the roll stabilizing torque is directly created in response to the rolling motion itself, the preformed support structure must be robust and rigid to immediately transfer strong forces between the vessel and the gyro-stabilization system.
In order to facilitate onsite customizable installations, and to help reduce labor, reduce mistakes, and avoid improper installation, the inventive preformed foundation support 10 needs to be easily cuttable to provide a custom fit within the confines of a particular vessel. Also, the materials in the construction of the preformed foundation support 10 needs to be able to withstand harsh marine environmental conditions, which typically include heavy salt laden moisture, salt water, fuels, oil, grit, and other corrosive and destructive conditions.
FIG. 5 is a top plan view of an embodiment of the inventive foundation support for a vessel gyro-stabilization system. FIG. 6 is an end view of the embodiment of the inventive foundation support for a vessel gyro-stabilization system. FIG. 7 is a side view of the embodiment of the inventive foundation support for a vessel gyro-stabilization system. The embodiment shown herein is exemplary of the inventive preformed foundation support. There are a variety of different sized gyro-stabilization systems made by a number of manufacturers. The same general structure and advantages can be achieved for different sized and shaped gyro-stabilization systems as described with regard to the exemplary embodiment shown in the drawings. The inventive preformed foundation support can be sized to a gyro-stabilization system that is custom fit into a particular vessel size range and/or type.
FIG. 8 shows an embodiment of the inventive foundation support 10 for a vessel gyro-stabilization system installed in the hull of a vessel. FIG. 9 is a sectional view of an embodiment of the inventive foundation support 10 for a vessel gyro-stabilization system showing transverse bracket details.
The molded preformed foundation support 10 is installed by bonding and tabbing to the hull of a vessel. Measurements are first taken of the installation location of the vessel. The longitudinal girders and transverse brackets are cut using a saw blade so that the cuttable portion 22 of the box shaped structure formed by the side supports are trimmed to fit in the installation location. As shown in FIG. 8 and FIG. 9, the trimmed preformed foundation support 10 is bonded to the hull using putty, resin, hardener, Cabosil and/or chopped glass fibers. In this example installation, fiberglass DBM 1708 Knytex Biaxial +/−45 degree fabric and CM 1808 0/90 degree fiberglass tape are used to create strong bonding between the foundation support 10 and the pre-existing hull structure. The longitudinal girders can be tabbed to the hull, for example, with alternating plies of DBM 1708 E-Glass biaxial (e.g. Vectorply E-BSM 1708 or equivalent) and CM 1808 E-glass biaxial 0/90 degree (Vectorply E-LTM 1808 or equivalent), with 4 plies that are 8″ wide (4″ on girders, 4″ on hull). The transverse brackets can be tabbed to the hull, for example, with alternating plies of DBM 1708 and CM 1808, 3 plies total, 8″ wide (4″ on brackets, 4″ on hull).
FIG. 10 shows an embodiment of the inventive foundation support 10 for a vessel gyro-stabilization system installed in the hull of a vessel over existing hull structure. FIG. 11 is a sectional view of an embodiment of the inventive foundation support 10 for a vessel gyro-stabilization system showing transverse bracket details as installed over existing hull structure. The preformed foundation support 10 is trimmed by cutting the side supports so that the longitudinal girders and the transverse brackets fit over and/or between existing hull structures, such as stiffeners and frames. Similar to the installation shown in FIG. 8 and FIG. 9, the longitudinal girders and the transverse brackets can be tabbed to the existing hull structures using fiberglass DBM 1708 Knytex Biaxial +/−45 degree fabric and CM 1808 0/90 degree fiberglass tape, putty, resin, hardener, Cabosil and/or chopped glass fibers.
FIG. 12 shows an embodiment of the inventive foundation support 10 for a vessel gyro-stabilization system installed in the hull of a vessel between existing hull structure. FIG. 13 is a sectional view of an embodiment of the inventive foundation support 10 for a vessel gyro-stabilization system showing transverse bracket details as installed between existing hull structure. In this installation example, the preformed foundation support 10 is bonded and tabbed over existing adjacent hull structure, which should have less than a 4″ gap. In this case, the gap between the trimmed preformed foundation support 10 and the existing adjacent hull structure is filled using a shaped block of fiber reinforced foam, such as Airex PXC. 385 or equivalent. The shaped block is bonded to both the existing adjacent hull structure and the trimmed preformed foundation support 10. Similar to the installations shown in FIGS. 8-11, the longitudinal girders and the transverse brackets can be tabbed to the existing adjacent hull structures and the foam block using fiberglass DBM 1708 Knytex Biaxial +/−45 degree fabric and CM 1808 0/90 degree fiberglass tape, putty, resin, hardener, Cabosil and/or chopped glass fibers.
At least one of the side supports may include a semi-circular cutout 20 for accommodating a spherical gyroscope housing of the vessel gyro-stabilization system and are integrally formed of a molded fiberglass construction. The molded fiberglass construction includes a resin impregnated fiberglass shell having a closed cell foam core, and a metal tapping plate is embedded within the fiberglass shell for fixing the vessel gyro-stabilization system to the preformed foundation support 10. The first and second side supports are longitudinally disposed girders locatable during installation of the preformed foundation support 10 parallel to a longitudinal center line of the vessel running from bow to stern of the vessel.
FIG. 14 is a dimensioned top plan view of a mold pattern for an embodiment of the inventive foundation support 10 for a vessel gyro-stabilization system. FIG. 15 is a dimensioned side end view of the mold pattern for the embodiment of the inventive foundation support 10 for a vessel gyro-stabilization system. FIG. 16 is a dimensioned end view of the mold pattern for the embodiment of the inventive foundation support 10 for a vessel gyro-stabilization system.
In accordance with an embodiment of manufacturing steps, a mold is provided having a mold cavity defining a box shaped cavity having a first side support cavity, a second side support cavity, a third side support cavity, and a fourth side support cavity. A fiberglass shell is laid up within the mold cavity, wherein the fiberglass shell comprises resin impregnated fiberglass cloth and forms a box shaped structure, and wherein the box shaped structure includes a cuttable portion 22 for custom fitting the preformed foundation support 10 in a vessel. To make a strong, stable preformed foundation support 10, a closed cell foam core is disposed within the fiberglass shell. The fiberglass shell can be made up of multiple layers of the resin impregnated fiberglass cloth.
FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a vessel gyro-stabilization system positioned for being installed in the trimmed foundation support 10 for a vessel gyro-stabilization system. Since the gyro-stabilization system metal is typically heavy and generates torque to perform its function, it must be very securely fixed to and supported by the preformed foundation support 10. A tapping plate is embedded within the fiberglass shell for fixing the vessel gyro-stabilization system to the preformed foundation support 10. This tapping plate can be drilled and tapped during the customization of the preformed foundation support 10 to fit the requirements of the particular installation. For example, the location and dimensions of the drilled holes will depend on the location of mating support elements of a particular gyro-stabilization system. Accordingly, the tapping plate is oversized to allow for a proper matchup of the drilled hole location during the installation procedure. The preformed foundation support 10 is installed parallel to the vessel centerline, with the upper surface of the longitudinal girders level. The vessel water plane is leveled (port/starboard, forward/aft) prior to beginning the installation.
FIG. 18 is a top plan view of a mold pattern for an embodiment of the inventive foundation support 10 for a vessel gyro-stabilization system. FIG. 19 is a side end view of the mold pattern for the embodiment of the inventive foundation support 10 for a vessel gyro-stabilization system. FIG. 20 is an end view of the mold pattern for the embodiment of the inventive foundation support 10 for a vessel gyro-stabilization system.
The first and second side supports are formed by laying up the resin impregnated fiberglass cloth and foam core within the mold to form longitudinally disposed girders. These girders are locatable during installation of the preformed foundation support 10 parallel to the longitudinal center line of the vessel running from bow to stern. The girders support the vessel gyro-stabilization system in the vessel along with the similarly formed third and fourth side supports formed as transverse brackets disposed substantially perpendicular to the girders. The mold is configured and dimensioned so that at least one of the side supports includes a semi-circular cutout 20 for accommodating a spherical gyroscope housing of the vessel gyro-stabilization system.
FIG. 21 is a top view of the composite mold showing molded transverse brackets. FIG. 22 is a cross-sectional view of a section of the composite mold showing a composition of the molded transverse bracket. FIG. 23 is a top view of the composite mold showing molded longitudinal girders. FIG. 24 is a cross-sectional view of a section of the composite mold showing a composition of the molded longitudinal girder with steel tapping plate.
In an exemplary construction, the transverse brackets of the composite molded preformed foundation support 10 are fabricated with one ply of 6 oz/sq·yard fiberglass cloth; one ply of CM 1808 fiberglass biaxial 0/90 degree (Vectorply E-LTM 1808 or equivalent); one ply of DBM 1708 fiberglass biaxial +/−45 degree (Vectorply E-BXM 1708 or equivalent); and one ply of CM 1808. After laying up the fiberglass layers, a 6 lb/cubic foot close cell polyiso foam (Elfoam P600 or equivalent) is shaped to fit to the transverse brackets. The foam ends are cut flush with the longitudinal girders inboard sides as shown in FIG. 22.
The longitudinal girders of the composite molded preformed foundation support 10 are fabricated with a one ply of 6 oz/sq·yard fiberglass cloth; one ply of CM 1808 fiberglass biaxiam 0/90 degree (Vectorply E-LTM 1808 or equivalent); one ply of DBM 1708 fiberglass biaxil +/−45 degree (Vectorply E-BXM 1708 or equivalent); and one ply of CM 1808. Four 5.5″×2.69″×1″ steel tapping plates are inserted as shown in FIG. 24. After laying up the fiberglass layers and inserting the steel tapping plates, a 6 lb/cubic foot close cell polyiso foam (Elfoam P600 or equivalent) is shaped to fit to the transverse brackets. The foam is bonded to the longitudinal girders laminate with putty, resin, hardener, Cabosil and/or chopped glass fibers. After hardening, the composite molded preformed foundation is demolded and made ready for a custom installation.
Various modifications and adaptations to the foregoing exemplary embodiments of this invention may become apparent to those skilled in the relevant arts in view of the foregoing description, when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. However, any and all modifications will still fall within the scope of the non-limiting and exemplary embodiments of this invention.
Furthermore, some of the features of the various non-limiting and exemplary embodiments of this invention may be used to advantage without the corresponding use of other features. As such, the foregoing description should be considered as merely illustrative of the principles, teachings and exemplary embodiments of this invention, and not in limitation thereof.

Claims (7)

What is claimed is:
1. A preformed foundation support for a vessel gyro-stabilization system generating sufficient torque to stabilize a vessel against rolling of the vessel in waves, comprising:
a first side support;
a second side support;
a third side support; and
a fourth side support, wherein the side supports define an opening for accommodating at least a portion of the vessel gyro-stabilization system, and wherein at least one of the first, second, third, and fourth side supports comprise a cuttable portion for custom fitting the preformed foundation support in the vessel, wherein the cuttable portion of the side supports are formed of saw cuttable molded fiberglass and cuttable so that the preformed foundation support fits into existing hull structures of the vessel and the cutting of the sides supports fits the preformed foundation support into the existing hull rigidly so that when affixed with bonding material to the existing hull the preformed foundation supports the transfer of force to the existing hull to support the weight and torque of the vessel gyro-stabilization system to reduce rolling of the vessel in waves.
2. The preformed foundation support according to claim 1; wherein at least one of the side supports includes a semi-circular cutout for accommodating a spherical gyroscope housing of the vessel gyro-stabilization system.
3. The preformed foundation support according to claim 1; wherein the first, second, third and fourth side supports are wall integrally formed of a molded fiberglass construction.
4. The preformed foundation support according to claim 3; wherein the molded fiberglass construction includes a resin impregnated fiberglass shell having a closed cell foam core.
5. The preformed foundation support according to claim 4; further comprising a metal tapping plate embedded within the fiberglass shell for fixing the vessel gyro-stabilization system to the preformed foundation support.
6. The preformed foundation support according to claim 1; wherein the first and second side supports are longitudinally disposed girders locatable during installation of the preformed foundation support parallel to a longitudinal center line of the vessel running from bow to stern of the vessel, the girders for supporting the vessel gyro-stabilization system in the vessel, and wherein the third and fourth side supports are transverse brackets disposed substantially perpendicular to the girders.
7. The preformed foundation support according to claim 6; wherein the first, second, third and fourth sidewalls are walls integrally formed of a molded fiberglass construction, the molded fiberglass construction including a resin impregnated fiberglass shell having a closed cell foam core having a metal tapping plate embedded within the fiberglass shell for fixing the vessel gyro-stabilization system to the preformed foundation support.
US16/027,420 2018-07-05 2018-07-05 Preformed foundation support for a marine vessel gyro-stabilization system Expired - Fee Related US10894587B2 (en)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US16/027,420 US10894587B2 (en) 2018-07-05 2018-07-05 Preformed foundation support for a marine vessel gyro-stabilization system

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US16/027,420 US10894587B2 (en) 2018-07-05 2018-07-05 Preformed foundation support for a marine vessel gyro-stabilization system

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
US20200010159A1 US20200010159A1 (en) 2020-01-09
US10894587B2 true US10894587B2 (en) 2021-01-19

Family

ID=69102530

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US16/027,420 Expired - Fee Related US10894587B2 (en) 2018-07-05 2018-07-05 Preformed foundation support for a marine vessel gyro-stabilization system

Country Status (1)

Country Link
US (1) US10894587B2 (en)

Families Citing this family (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US11745832B2 (en) 2020-11-06 2023-09-05 Torx Marine Inc. Stringer and system for mounting equipment to a vessel's hull

Citations (20)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US769693A (en) * 1903-01-08 1904-09-13 Thomas C Forbes Device for steadying ships.
US1330503A (en) * 1917-04-11 1920-02-10 Sperry Gyroscope Co Ltd Gyroscopic apparatus for ships
US2547968A (en) * 1945-02-13 1951-04-10 Charles L Paulus Gyrostabilizer
US3158340A (en) * 1961-11-15 1964-11-24 Ling Temco Vought Inc Gyroscopic control apparatus
US3576134A (en) * 1968-02-19 1971-04-27 Tetra Tech Gyroscopic stabilizer having an adjustable spring
US4118707A (en) * 1976-04-30 1978-10-03 Tokyo Shibaura Electric Co., Ltd. Gyro stabilized platform for scanning antenna
US4150580A (en) * 1978-03-06 1979-04-24 Newport Plastics, Inc. Gyroscopic exerciser
US4448086A (en) * 1982-05-20 1984-05-15 The United States Of America As Represented By The Secretary Of The Air Force Temperature controlled gyro
US5778735A (en) * 1996-05-17 1998-07-14 Regents Of The University Of California Interlayer toughening of fiber composite flywheel rotors
US5871249A (en) * 1996-11-12 1999-02-16 Williams; John H. Stable positioning system for suspended loads
US6014911A (en) * 1998-01-13 2000-01-18 Swett; Dwight W. Flywheel with self-expanding hub
US6401556B1 (en) * 1999-06-23 2002-06-11 Peter Winston Hamady Precessional device and method thereof
US20030029367A1 (en) * 2001-08-10 2003-02-13 Katsuya Umemura Oscillation suppression device
US6973847B2 (en) * 2003-06-04 2005-12-13 Gearloose Engineering, Inc. Gyroscopic roll stabilizer for boats
US7240630B2 (en) * 2003-10-08 2007-07-10 Marine Motion Control, Llc Gyrostabilizer for small boats
US20070272142A1 (en) * 2004-03-25 2007-11-29 Nedwed Timothy J Hydrogyro ship stabilizer and method for stabilizing a vessel
US8456159B2 (en) * 2010-01-15 2013-06-04 Vale S.A. Stabilization system for sensors on moving platforms
US9381981B2 (en) * 2013-06-18 2016-07-05 Item Mare S.R.L. Gyroscopic stabilizer for boats
US9586660B2 (en) * 2015-05-25 2017-03-07 Mehmet Nevres ULGEN Gyroscopic roll stabilizing device for marine vessels and method for same
US10449818B2 (en) * 2015-01-17 2019-10-22 Audi Ag Rotation damper for a motor vehicle

Patent Citations (20)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US769693A (en) * 1903-01-08 1904-09-13 Thomas C Forbes Device for steadying ships.
US1330503A (en) * 1917-04-11 1920-02-10 Sperry Gyroscope Co Ltd Gyroscopic apparatus for ships
US2547968A (en) * 1945-02-13 1951-04-10 Charles L Paulus Gyrostabilizer
US3158340A (en) * 1961-11-15 1964-11-24 Ling Temco Vought Inc Gyroscopic control apparatus
US3576134A (en) * 1968-02-19 1971-04-27 Tetra Tech Gyroscopic stabilizer having an adjustable spring
US4118707A (en) * 1976-04-30 1978-10-03 Tokyo Shibaura Electric Co., Ltd. Gyro stabilized platform for scanning antenna
US4150580A (en) * 1978-03-06 1979-04-24 Newport Plastics, Inc. Gyroscopic exerciser
US4448086A (en) * 1982-05-20 1984-05-15 The United States Of America As Represented By The Secretary Of The Air Force Temperature controlled gyro
US5778735A (en) * 1996-05-17 1998-07-14 Regents Of The University Of California Interlayer toughening of fiber composite flywheel rotors
US5871249A (en) * 1996-11-12 1999-02-16 Williams; John H. Stable positioning system for suspended loads
US6014911A (en) * 1998-01-13 2000-01-18 Swett; Dwight W. Flywheel with self-expanding hub
US6401556B1 (en) * 1999-06-23 2002-06-11 Peter Winston Hamady Precessional device and method thereof
US20030029367A1 (en) * 2001-08-10 2003-02-13 Katsuya Umemura Oscillation suppression device
US6973847B2 (en) * 2003-06-04 2005-12-13 Gearloose Engineering, Inc. Gyroscopic roll stabilizer for boats
US7240630B2 (en) * 2003-10-08 2007-07-10 Marine Motion Control, Llc Gyrostabilizer for small boats
US20070272142A1 (en) * 2004-03-25 2007-11-29 Nedwed Timothy J Hydrogyro ship stabilizer and method for stabilizing a vessel
US8456159B2 (en) * 2010-01-15 2013-06-04 Vale S.A. Stabilization system for sensors on moving platforms
US9381981B2 (en) * 2013-06-18 2016-07-05 Item Mare S.R.L. Gyroscopic stabilizer for boats
US10449818B2 (en) * 2015-01-17 2019-10-22 Audi Ag Rotation damper for a motor vehicle
US9586660B2 (en) * 2015-05-25 2017-03-07 Mehmet Nevres ULGEN Gyroscopic roll stabilizing device for marine vessels and method for same

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
US20200010159A1 (en) 2020-01-09

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
KR102674626B1 (en) semi-submersible floater
KR101731878B1 (en) Method of inclining test for semi-submergible RIG
US10894587B2 (en) Preformed foundation support for a marine vessel gyro-stabilization system
CN101407248A (en) Integrated building method of shipboard subsection in shipbuilding process
CN103895829A (en) Continuous buoy composite floating structure system
CN113216707A (en) Construction method of pool wall of towing pool
US9580148B1 (en) Lightweight marine craft and methods thereof
AU2006248818B2 (en) Fin unit with elastic attachment system on an underside of a marine apparatus
KR101323796B1 (en) The Method for Constructing Deck House Module of Ship and The Ship With Deck House Module Constructing by The Same
US7506603B2 (en) Unsinkable hull structure and a method for the manufacturing thereof
AU2007200791A1 (en) Boat construction method
US6948444B2 (en) Hull reinforcing system
JP5820861B2 (en) Construction method of offshore building
CN103786830B (en) Fiberglass laminated deck and its processing technology with strengthening groove
Miller et al. Development of the USNA SailBots (ASV)
Hepburn et al. The US Navy's new coastal minehunter (MHC): design, material, and construction facilities
CN208360416U (en) Wooden deck of aluminum alloy ship
US12172346B2 (en) Unitary boat hull and methods of manufacture
KR20090006248A (en) Block drying method of ship
US12264489B1 (en) Environmentally friendly reusable structure for use in construction
KR102673891B1 (en) Bridge Wing and Ship having the same
SE535055C2 (en) Method of building a floating unit
KR20090041511A (en) Buzan Bridge using aluminum panels
CN120250715A (en) Suspended tunnel structure using flexible pipe joints and rigid joints and construction method thereof
GB2224978A (en) Constructing boat hulls and other structures

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
FEPP Fee payment procedure

Free format text: ENTITY STATUS SET TO UNDISCOUNTED (ORIGINAL EVENT CODE: BIG.); ENTITY STATUS OF PATENT OWNER: SMALL ENTITY

FEPP Fee payment procedure

Free format text: ENTITY STATUS SET TO SMALL (ORIGINAL EVENT CODE: SMAL); ENTITY STATUS OF PATENT OWNER: SMALL ENTITY

STPP Information on status: patent application and granting procedure in general

Free format text: NON FINAL ACTION MAILED

STPP Information on status: patent application and granting procedure in general

Free format text: RESPONSE TO NON-FINAL OFFICE ACTION ENTERED AND FORWARDED TO EXAMINER

STPP Information on status: patent application and granting procedure in general

Free format text: NON FINAL ACTION MAILED

STPP Information on status: patent application and granting procedure in general

Free format text: RESPONSE TO NON-FINAL OFFICE ACTION ENTERED AND FORWARDED TO EXAMINER

STPP Information on status: patent application and granting procedure in general

Free format text: PUBLICATIONS -- ISSUE FEE PAYMENT VERIFIED

STCF Information on status: patent grant

Free format text: PATENTED CASE

FEPP Fee payment procedure

Free format text: MAINTENANCE FEE REMINDER MAILED (ORIGINAL EVENT CODE: REM.); ENTITY STATUS OF PATENT OWNER: SMALL ENTITY

LAPS Lapse for failure to pay maintenance fees

Free format text: PATENT EXPIRED FOR FAILURE TO PAY MAINTENANCE FEES (ORIGINAL EVENT CODE: EXP.); ENTITY STATUS OF PATENT OWNER: SMALL ENTITY

STCH Information on status: patent discontinuation

Free format text: PATENT EXPIRED DUE TO NONPAYMENT OF MAINTENANCE FEES UNDER 37 CFR 1.362

FP Lapsed due to failure to pay maintenance fee

Effective date: 20250119